Jan 05 2024
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Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
Mrs. Robinson -- classic and delightful.
America is covered by First Aid Kit and it's cool to see the origin story.
4
Jan 08 2024
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Let's Stay Together
Al Green
GREAT morning vibes. This album is scratching an itch I didn't know I had.
"How Can You Mend a Broken Heart" is so devastatingly sad :(
4
Jan 09 2024
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Zombie
Fela Kuti
Not what my usual style is, but interesting music to have on in the background. I also appreciate the Nigerian(?) protest back story on this album.
3
Jan 10 2024
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Rio
Duran Duran
3
Jan 11 2024
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People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
The album starting off with a baby crying is pretty weird, ngl. Otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed this album. Listening to rap that wasn't about drugs/sex/degrading women was refreshing and the lyrics were fun and clever.
4
Jan 12 2024
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The White Album
Beatles
5
Jan 15 2024
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We Are Family
Sister Sledge
It was fine, but it felt more dated than the other albums we've heard. Also, the titular song, "We Are Family," is so overplayed at family-friendly events that it almost seems like a parody of itself at this point.
2
Jan 16 2024
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Remain In Light
Talking Heads
It was fine. I can appreciate the musicality and vibe they were going for, but it didn't capture me. I *do* appreciate "Once In a Lifetime" though ("This is not my beautiful house... as the days go by...")
3
Jan 17 2024
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Tical
Method Man
The violent lyrics made it impossible for me to enjoy this album. Not my thing.
1
Jan 18 2024
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The Stranger
Billy Joel
This album has some great songs on it:
- Movin Out
- Vienna
- Only the Good Die Young
- She's Always a Woman
That said, I don't think this album was necessarily "ground-breaking" or adding anything extraordinarily new to my repertoire. It was between a 3 and a 4 but ultimately leaned towards a three.
3
Jan 19 2024
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The Pleasure Principle
Gary Numan
I liked this more than I thought I would. It's great music to listen to during work, and I definitely will listen to it again.
4
Jan 22 2024
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xx
The xx
The first two songs were great, but the rest of the album kind of blended together for me.
3
Jan 23 2024
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Kid A
Radiohead
Just wow. I've never really listened to Radiohead but this album was amazing. It evoked really intense emotions that aren't usually addressed in albums and every song was unique and beautiful while also maintaining cohesiveness as an album.
5
Jan 24 2024
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Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
3
Jan 25 2024
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The Contino Sessions
Death In Vegas
the album had a fun vibe, though, especially "Dirge"
4
Jan 26 2024
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More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
3
Jan 29 2024
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At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
Conceptually, it was really interesting that Cash wanted to perform a live album at a prison, but it meant the set list felt like it catered and pandered a lot to toxic masculinity. The number of references to violence towards women and animals made the album unenjoyable. The songs that didn't include these topics were interesting, and I enjoyed the story quality of the lyrics, but the light scattering of these songs in between violent ones wasn't enough.
I also was pretty "meh" about Cash's voice and musicality. Just not my style.
2
Jan 30 2024
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Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
4
Jan 31 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
Too grunge for my taste. I read that the lyrics were about interesting topics, but the gravelly tone of the singing meant I couldn't really understand much. This just isn't a style that resonates very well for me.
2
Feb 01 2024
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Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
3
Feb 02 2024
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My Generation
The Who
Fun album! Felt like a mashup of the Beatles with something more "punk rock" like the Ramones.
4
Feb 05 2024
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At Newport 1960
Muddy Waters
I enjoyed it, and it was great to listen to an album by someone whose name I've heard for years but never listened to. I don't anticipate listening to it often, which is why I ultimately went "3" instead of "4", but it was close!
3
Feb 06 2024
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Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
I went through a brief "Fleet Foxes" phase several years ago, but since then, all the songs on this album blend together and sound the same to me. It's an enjoyable listen, but not one I anticipate gravitating to.
3
Feb 07 2024
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American Gothic
David Ackles
Interesting style -- sort of a blend of Sinatra with something darker/more sinister. Several songs had really interesting moments, and I enjoyed "Oh, California!", but overall the styling and singer's voice didn't resonate with me.
3
Feb 08 2024
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Queen II
Queen
Great album. I thought the two sides (white and black) were unique from each other and I loved that there were songs on each side that represented different points of view (White Queen, March of the Black Queen.) There were some riffs that felt like they were clearly inspiration for some of Queen's more popular songs later on ("Bicycle" and "Bohemian Rhapsody").
4
Feb 09 2024
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The Doors
The Doors
Good album. Could definitely hear aspects that the Beatles were influenced by. I thought "psychedelic" rock wouldn't be my cup of tea, but this was fun.
4
Feb 12 2024
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Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
I appreciate the lyrics and value this group brings to the music scene and I can totally imagine really enjoying them when in an intense/angry mood. I don't get angry often though, so I probably won't listen to this much.
2
Feb 13 2024
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Moving Pictures
Rush
Eh, not really my thing. Not bad though.
3
Feb 14 2024
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Pelican West
Haircut 100
3
Feb 15 2024
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Live / Dead
Grateful Dead
Grateful Dead ratings will unfortunately always suffer from the fact that it was the band my family played *nonstop* when I was a kid. They're too ingratiated with memories of long boring family road trips for me to listen objectively. With that being said, it was a pleasant-sounding album, and in the moments when I forgot who I was listening to, it was fun.
2
Feb 16 2024
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Abbey Road
Beatles
5
Feb 19 2024
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
4
Feb 20 2024
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Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
4
Feb 21 2024
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Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
2
Feb 26 2024
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The Joshua Tree
U2
3
Mar 04 2024
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Here Are the Sonics
The Sonics
4
Mar 05 2024
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Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
3
Mar 06 2024
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Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
I found that the album kept slipping into the background of whatever I was doing so I didn't thoroughly listen to it, even though I tried. It was fine, but since it didn't really capture my attention it's a 3.
3
Mar 07 2024
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New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
2
Mar 08 2024
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Metal Box
Public Image Ltd.
I tried to like this and understand it. I even gave it a second, more-dedicated, listen. But it just sounds like noise and unpleasant chaos to me. Didn't enjoy any of it.
1
Mar 11 2024
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The Dark Side Of The Moon
Pink Floyd
I'd never really listened to this album before but holy crap. Loved every moment of it.
5
Mar 12 2024
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
"For little kids growing up in the ghettos," he said, "it's easy to get into the wrong types of things, especially gangbanging and selling drugs. I've seen what that was like, and I don't glorify it, but I don't preach. I bring it to them rather than have them go find out about it for themselves."
Nope, Snoop. You missed the mark on this 1000%
I am torn on this album because the musicality and Snoops vocal style is phenomenal. I love the tonality, playfulness, and unpredictability of his rhythms. Based on that alone this album would be a 5.
However, the lyrics the lyrics the lyrics. Ughhhh why? Misogynistic, overly sexual, and violent. I have to knock several rating points off for that.
2
Mar 13 2024
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Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega
There were some stand out songs ("The Queen and the Soldier"), but other songs weren't my cup of tea. The first song in particular was weak ("Cracking").
3
Mar 14 2024
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Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite
Maxwell
It was alright. R&B isn't a genre that really speaks to me, so this album faced an uphill battle.
2
Mar 15 2024
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Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
3
Mar 18 2024
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Hot Rats
Frank Zappa
Great album. Interesting and unique instrumentals with lots to say. Would be a 4.5/5 if I could do half stars.
4
Mar 19 2024
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Pink Moon
Nick Drake
Great album. It was almost a 5. I think it would have been a 5 if I had listened to this one in the right mood.
I'm a big fan of Alexi Murdoch and heard how heavily he was influenced by Nick Drake in this album. It's cool to discover the foundation to an artist I like, because now I have another one :D
4
Mar 20 2024
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Ghosteen
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Oof. This was like listening to beat poetry from someone whose mother should have told them they couldn't sing, all lumped on top of lackluster instrumentals.
1
Mar 21 2024
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Roxy Music
Roxy Music
Fun album! It was surprising to me that it was produced in the early 70's because it took stylistic influences from so many places. Even though I enjoyed listening to it (I gave it 4 listens), it's a 3 for me because no single song felt truly "memorable" to me. I'll probably listen to the album again though.
3
Mar 22 2024
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Sulk
The Associates
"Arrogance Gave Him Up" is an absolutely great opening track. It was entirely instrumental, and it got me really excited by the album. Unfortunately, it was the only standout track for me, and the others were either middling to poor.
3
Mar 25 2024
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Rock 'N Soul
Solomon Burke
Fun album with a classic doowop vintage vibe. Great morning listen.
4
Mar 26 2024
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All Directions
The Temptations
3
Mar 27 2024
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Pyromania
Def Leppard
Sorry, heavy metal fans. The combination of screamy vocals and heavy metal with a hint of blues(?) just didn't work for me.
2
Mar 28 2024
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Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
This one was really mixed for me. Lyrically, some of the songs were really aggressive towards women (i.e., "Sometimes" and "Peaches"), but there were other songs that were about interesting topics ("Goodbye Toulouse", "Down in the Sewer"). Musically, there were some really fun punk bangers, but there were a few others where things were a little slow, and the lead singer's vocals dragged down the song. I'm glad I listed to The Stranglers, but don't think they'll be a punk band I listen to much compared to some others.
3
Mar 29 2024
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Public Image: First Issue
Public Image Ltd.
I liked this better than Metal Box, but still not something I'll listen to again
2
Apr 01 2024
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
4
Apr 02 2024
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Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
I was pleasantly surprised by this album. In general, "grunge" isn't a genre I gravitate towards, but this album was cohesive, moving, and fun. I also enjoyed the lead singer's vocals a lot in the context of the songs and the album.
4
Apr 03 2024
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Marquee Moon
Television
I enjoyed some of the musical riffs, but much of the album didn't catch me. Also not a huge fan of the lead singer's voice. Enjoyable listen overall, though.
3
Apr 04 2024
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D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
I really enjoyed the experimental instrumental parts of this album. It was almost like listening to a piece of art instead of music. I didn't care much for the vocals of the lead singer, but most of the tracks used this type of vocal work sparingly or not at all. Overall, an interesting album from a genre I'm curious to learn more about.
4
Apr 05 2024
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
This is the third talking heads album we've had in 60 albums so I think I have talking heads fatigue. Still a fun listen though
3
Apr 08 2024
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Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
I liked this more than Exodus
3
Apr 09 2024
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good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
I really enjoyed this album. Great lyrical moments and really interesting melodies and riffs (especially for a rap album). I felt like I got a really great glimpse and understanding into Lamar's life and the challenges of growing up in an area where gang activity is so prevalent and complex to avoid. I think I'll listen to this one again multiple times and continue to discover new moments and lyrics every time.
4
Apr 10 2024
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After The Gold Rush
Neil Young
"Birds" is a forgotten favorite of mine -- I'm glad this album helped me rediscover it!
4
Apr 11 2024
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Pictures At An Exhibition
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
I played several songs from the orchestral version of Pictures At An Exhibition with my high school band, so this album was nostalgic for me. It was interesting how the album started fairly close to the original source material and then seemed to deviate farther and farther into "rock" as it progressed. Also "Nutrocker" is an absolute Christmas bop and I think it should be on way more Christmas playlists.
3
Apr 12 2024
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Phaedra
Tangerine Dream
Eh, the only times this album struck me was when it was very discordant and anxiety-inducing. Probably won't listen to this one again.
2
Apr 15 2024
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Aqualung
Jethro Tull
It was fine. Fun at times, and now I finally know what my step dad was talking about with Jethro Tull's flute when I was a flute player in high school.
3
Apr 16 2024
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The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
I had mixed feelings about this album. On the one hand, I appreciate the ground-breaking work they did for the electronica genre, but on the other hand I think that because they were basically the father of the genre it almost feels like a parody of itself at this point because it's so influential and is indirectly referenced through so much of modern content. I really enjoyed the instrumental/musical side of this album, but where it lost me was the lyrics because they felt really dated. With themes like "metropolis" "neon" and "robots" that were probably really futuristic at the time, now they are just commonplace and what we view as people from the 60's and 70's as thinking the future would be like.
3
Apr 17 2024
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Bad
Michael Jackson
A fun pop album, with so many enduringly well-known songs. Sometimes the album felt a little too earnest, dramatic, and cheesy, especially with songs like "Man in the Mirror". It's still damn catchy and I was 100% bopping along to it, but probably not an album I'll gravitate towards very often.
3
Apr 18 2024
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Darkdancer
Les Rythmes Digitales
Eh, it was fine I guess. Nothing really stood out to me, good or bad. We've also had a recent onslaught of electronica albums so it's possible I have electronica fatigue and/or this was just a weaker album compared to others we've heard recently.
2
Apr 19 2024
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No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (Live)
Motörhead
It was loud and I really didn't care for the main singer's (yeller's?) vocals. Instrumentals could have been interesting at times, but they got lost in the cacophony of the rest of the noise.
2
Apr 22 2024
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
It was fine. I enjoyed the vibe of this album a little more than "Bad" on the whole. This album had a way stronger disco influence to it, which made it feel more dated than most of Jackson's biggest hits from other albums.
3
Apr 23 2024
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Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
Really enjoyed this one. There's a balance of very insightful and pointed comments on race and politics while still having an album that can invoke both anger and amusement in the listener. I was also really impressed by the sound. 90's hip hop was still discovering and exploring the genre and, therefore, sometimes fell victim to redundant beats, but this album was musically interesting and ahead of its time.
4
Apr 24 2024
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Lady In Satin
Billie Holiday
Classic voice and era. Nice listen to relax and have good vibes.
3
Apr 25 2024
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Blood, Sweat & Tears
Blood, Sweat & Tears
I really liked the musicality of this one. The jazz + rock was a really interesting vibe. It was also intriguing to read about the band and why I've never heard of them before. This album won a grammy for "Album of the Year" over albums like Abbey Road, but the band faced huge backlash after doing a tour behind the Iron Curtain. Glad that the 1001 project helped me discover them!
4
Apr 26 2024
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Here, My Dear
Marvin Gaye
Great morning listen. Gaye has a phenomenally smooth voice that is a delight to listen to. None of the songs really captured me individually, but the overall vibe was nice, which is why this album is a 3 instead of a 4 for me. I definitely see myself listening to this on a lazy Sunday morning with a cup of coffee.
3
Apr 29 2024
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Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
Fun music that's a joy to listen to. Lots of traditional latin beats and riffs.
4
Apr 30 2024
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James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
3
May 01 2024
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Your Arsenal
Morrissey
"Your Arsenal reflected Morrissey's lament for what he regarded as the decline of British culture in the face of increasing Americanisation.[127] He told one interviewer that "everything is informed by American culture—everyone under fifty speaks American—and that's sad. We once had a strong identity and now that's gone completely"."
Sorry, Morrissey, but this American loves the album.
I also just get an indescribable amount of joy from the song title "We Hate When Our Friends Become Successful" because it taps into the pettiness of humans so well.
4
May 02 2024
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The Real Thing
Faith No More
It was alright. Probably closer to a 2.5 for me because it was on the "louder"/metal side of rock, which isn't usually my thing. I didn't mind the lead vocalists voice as much as other metal albums though and some of the songs were fun and catchy.
2
May 03 2024
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Stardust
Willie Nelson
This album was like a cozy, comforting hug of calmness and familiarity. Like when you're a kid and you're crying because of a scraped knee and then your mom kisses it to make it better.
4
May 06 2024
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
Loved the fun, playful lyrics. Similar in style to the Beatles, but different enough to have their own unique take on things. Will definitely listen to more Kinks in the future.
4
May 07 2024
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Paranoid
Black Sabbath
Not a genre I usually enjoy (in fact I dragged my feet on listening to this one because I wasn't ready for metal), but it was actually a fun album. Great musicality and lots of instrumental talent. I probably won't listen to this one again because of the genre, which is why it's a 3, but on musicality alone it would be a 4.
3
May 08 2024
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Loveless
My Bloody Valentine
The opening of this album made me nervous that I would hate it, but then the album chilled out and grew into itself. Decent chill vibe to listen to during work.
3
May 09 2024
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Heroes to Zeros
The Beta Band
This album reminded me of another band I like, "Django Django". The vocals are distinct, and the subtly electronic melodies are soothing and ethereal.
4
May 10 2024
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Beautiful Freak
Eels
Hated the album cover, loved the album itself. I've not generally enjoyed 90's rock, but this was a really good blend of surfish rock with a slight hint of grunge that resonated really well for me. Also, big shoutout to Shrek.
4
May 13 2024
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The Cars
The Cars
This was such a decade-bending album. Some tracks and bars felt like the 60's, some the 70's, and some the 80's. It felt very much like this album influenced a lot of the 80's key defining stylistic features. Since I'm not usually the biggest fan of the 80's, that was almost a knock against this album in a "So it's THEIR fault!" mentality, but even so I can't deny that this album was great. Every song was a bop and had a lot to say.
4
May 14 2024
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Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
This was a solid 3 for me. I could tell it was really influential and popular for its time, but is probably too dated for me to enjoy super regularly. I did like hearing "Not Fade Away", which I've previously only heard done by the Grateful Dead.
3
May 15 2024
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Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
I thought "Paranoid" was a stronger album, but this one was still interesting. There is very clearly some musical talent in the riffs, which was the standout of the album for me.
3
May 16 2024
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Calenture
The Triffids
This album wasn't good. From the very first song, my main impression was of over-the-top cheese. As songs ticked by, I formed a theory that every song on this album has one of three uses:
1. Drunken karaoke where some rando hit the wrong song button.
2. 90's movie montage background music (think of the cliche "running to the airport to try and confess your love")
3. Horribly cheesy 80's music videos in black and white with the singer appearing to be really angsty, looking off in the distance.
To make it 100% obvious, none of these scenarios are things that a musical group should aspire to.
2
May 17 2024
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Music Has The Right To Children
Boards of Canada
Some of the songs were interesting, but others made me a bit uncomfortable. Listening to 3 minutes of a little kid slowly saying "I... love... you.." was particularly unsettling.
All in all, a decent album to listen to while working, but not anything overly special for me.
3
May 20 2024
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Play
Moby
I thought this album would be a "4" after I started listening to it the first time. I listened to the first half in my car and it had a lot of great emotion behind the songs. However I didn't feel as strongly about the second half. When I listened to the album again, it was much less evocative for me, so it bumped down to a "3"
3
May 21 2024
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War
U2
I liked this one a lot more than "Joshua Tree", but ultimately don't see myself listening to it much.
3
May 22 2024
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Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
Maybe this project is making me a convert to the 90's, because this is one of several 90's albums recently that I've really enjoyed. The songs were fun and felt relatable.
4
May 23 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
A palatable county album. I love Nelson's voice for this type of music, so that was the standout for me.
3
May 24 2024
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Roots
Sepultura
Whewwww boy. This was a big ole' "NOPE."
It was loud. It was long.
When the album started and my ear drums started bleeding, I thought to myself "Am I enjoying this? No. Would I regret turning this album off and not finishing it? No." But then my lovely husband GUILTED me into finishing it, saying, "I don't think you can rate the album if you don't finish it. ItS nOt In ThE SpIrT oF ThE PrOjeCttttt."
Fine, Jeff. I finished the album. I'll bill you for the permanent ear damage I incurred.
*As an aside, if I were to say anything nice about this album, I at least did appreciate the Brazilian/Latin instrumentation and beats that were sprinkled from time to time. They were fun and broke up the monotony of screaming chaos.
1
May 27 2024
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Live At Leeds
The Who
Great sound quality for a live album. I think I prefer the earlier Who work to this, but the "My Generation" medley was a standout for me.
3
May 28 2024
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Brothers
The Black Keys
I had a big Black Keys phase when I lived in Mississippi, but I was more into El Camino at the time (since it had recently been released). Now that I have revisited the band, Brothers is SUCH a tight, cohesive, and phenomenal album. Every song is filled with feeling, danceability, and soul, but also manages to keep each song feeling unique and valuable to the album as a whole.
5
May 29 2024
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Risque
CHIC
I was going to rate this one a "2", but then we closed on a house, drank champagne, and danced like madmen around the living room to this album. The danceability bumped it up to a well-deserved 3.
Before the living room dance party, I thought this was the best disco album we've had to date. The songs are interesting, and the vocals are delightful. Honestly, it's just the genre that doesn't work well for me overall because the strong 2+4 drum beats are persistent and glaring in every song.
3
May 30 2024
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The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails
This album grew on me the further into it I got. After the first song I thought for sure that it would be a 2 star album for me, but the song variation and themes worked really well. Not every song is my cup of tea, but there are some fun ones.
3
May 31 2024
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The Coral
The Coral
This was a fun and funky album. Every song felt like it was in a completely different style/genre (beach, reggae, polka, ska, rock?!!), but the overarching album still worked because the singer's voice remained constant, and many of the songs had a sort of funk, sinister New Orleans vibe.
4
Jun 03 2024
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British Steel
Judas Priest
This album wasn't good. It felt really cheesy and overly dramatic. I didn't hate it enough to give it a "1", but it was a close call.
2
Jun 04 2024
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The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
Blowin' in the Wind
A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall
Don't Think Twice It's All Right
Oxford Town
It's a great album with so many standout songs. I'm not the biggest harmonica fan, but Dylan's songwriting more than makes up for it.
4
Jun 05 2024
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New Forms
Roni Size
Look, it wasn't *bad*, but it was LONG af. 20 songs at 6 minutes a piece that all sounded the same. Like, I genuinely couldn't tell you one song that stood out from the rest, so much so that I imagine this was a 2-hour glimpse into what purgatory must be like.
Oh, and to top it all off, the album cover was giving me serious "90's business suite software that you need a 300 page manual to start using" vibes.
The one "plus" of this album was that it wasn't terrible to listen to as work background music, sort of like lofi. Maybe if there was a Lofi Girl equivalent for Drums and Bass I'd find this album more endearing.
2
Jun 06 2024
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Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
This album may have been a 3, except it was so dang long. This was much better than the other Nick Cave album we had, and his vocals on this one weren't terrible, but the songs all felt a little whiny+Pearl Jammy to me.
2
Jun 07 2024
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Technique
New Order
This album felt disjointed. Some songs were slow 80s love ballads, and others were dance house electronica ragers, and to me, the genre jump from song to song made for an album that didn't feel cohesive.
Some of the music was fun, and I enjoyed listening to several of the songs for pump-up jams.
3
Jun 10 2024
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(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Very "country" rock. It was fine, but nothing felt too special, apart from the birth of the World's Longest Song (or at least how it feels), "Freebird."
3
Jun 11 2024
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
A little bit of the Smiths, a little bit of Fleet Foxes, and a lot of wonderful chill guitar. When I saw that this was a British rock album from 1989 I was bracing myself for a lot of 80's synth, but was spectacularly and pleasantly surprised by what I got instead. Every song felt fresh and unique, and just as I felt like the vibe was getting stale, the next song would come in with a completely refreshed beat and melody that rejuvenated the listening experience.
I don't often give out 5s, but I'm contemplating it with this one, mostly because of how enjoyable it was *plus* the pleasant surprise. I feel like this album was extraordinarily influential for later bands.
5
Jun 12 2024
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Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
The blend of blues and southern rock was fun and the lead vocalist's sound worked really well for this genre. Many fun songs that I've heard before, but overall not something that I anticipate listening to much.
3
Jun 13 2024
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Slanted And Enchanted
Pavement
This one was tricky for me to rate. I enjoyed listening to it, but not quite as much as albums by Smashing Pumpkins and Oasis, which this album reminded me of a little bit. When trying to decide whether to rate an album a 3 or a 4, I ask myself "Will I listen to this again?" and if the answer is yes, I rate it a 4. I can see myself listening to this album again, even if not very often, so that's why I ultimately went with a 4.
4
Jun 14 2024
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Parklife
Blur
4
Jun 17 2024
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Electric Warrior
T. Rex
It was a fun album at times, but didn't feel substantive. At times it felt like it was trying too hard to come off as amazing and glamorous, which ended up sounding overly dramatic or like it was too much. The song that's stood the test of time ("Bang a Gong (Get It On)") was fun, if silly. Overall, it wasn't a *bad* album, per se, but if I find myself wanting to listen to fun glam rock I've got better options.
3
Jun 18 2024
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Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
I listened to this album several times hoping that I'd uncover something amazing. After all, it's David-effing-BOWIE. And yet... I wasn't amazed.
This album felt quieter than other Bowie songs I've heard in the past—almost subtle, in a way (which is *not* a word I'd typically associate with Bowie). I got the most enjoyment from this album when I could fully listen to the ways the musical layers intertwined. There was a chaotic beauty in the playful background piano with the more prominent melodies, which hinted at the artist's powerhouse potential. And yet...nothing (apart from "Time") stood out to me.
I really hope the David Bowie fans don't crucify me for feeling lukewarm about this album. Since it was the first Bowie album we've had in the 1001 project, I'm hopeful that another of his albums will strike me more.
3
Jun 19 2024
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
It was really interesting to hear an Elvis album and not just one of his most popular hits randomly in a movie. This album was a blend of blues, country, and hints of rock and roll, and it was clear how influential his work was for future musicians. Some of the songs were really fun ("Only the Strong Survive" was the standout for me), but overall the trends towards country and slow songs wasn't really doing it for me.
3
Jun 20 2024
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The Next Day
David Bowie
Reminded me a bit of Ghosteen by Nick Cave. Slow, sad, dramatic, and not something I really enjoyed listening to. Perhaps if I had more time to synthesize the lyrics I'd feel differently, but the few times through I gave it didn't resonate with me and I don't see myself listening to this again.
2
Jun 21 2024
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Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
3
Jun 24 2024
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Sea Change
Beck
This one was really tricky for me to rate. It was such a sad and heavy album and I didn't get a chance to listen to it with as much dedication or focus as I'd like to (plus we were moving houses when this album came up, so my music-listening headspace was all over the place). I can see this album being a 4 for me with more steeping time and under the right circumstances, but for right now it's a 3.
3
Jun 25 2024
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A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
This was a really crisp and musical album. I'm not very well-versed in jazz, but the riffs and solos in the songs were fun and bouncy, all while blending into the chord progressions really beautifully. I hadn't listened to Coltrane before, even though I'd heard his name, so it was a really cool piece of music history to listen to him. I also took the opportunity to read about his life and career and it's so clear that he lived and breathed jazz and his passion for music was the reason his work was so groundbreaking.
4
Jun 26 2024
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Crime Of The Century
Supertramp
Really fun album. Catchy songs, danceable melodies, and singable choruses (Bloody Well Right is a bopppp). It was glamorous and a bit like a Broadway musical -- reminded me a bit of Queen, but in a more lighthearted and less outrageous vein.
4
Jun 27 2024
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Ellington at Newport
Duke Ellington
I love big band jazz, and this was the first one we've had in the project so it was a nice treat! The clarinet and trumpet solos were amazing because it was clear the musicians were extraordinarily talented and were using the songs as an excuse to showcase their skills (and show off!).
4
Jun 28 2024
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Heavy Weather
Weather Report
This album didn't really speak to me. I didn't hate any of it, but none of the songs stood out. We've had several jazz albums in the past few weeks and this one felt the least original and inspired of the lot. I'm sure the musicians are talented, but I wasn't wowed by any of the solos.
3
Jul 01 2024
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Led Zeppelin III
Led Zeppelin
Great album. It was a nearly perfect blend of folk, rock, country, and energy that I didn't know existed. I'd never really listened to Led Zeppelin before, mostly because I assumed they were more heavy metal/screamo. I had heard "Going to California" before and loved the song, but knew it wasn't really reflective of the band as a whole, but now that I've listened to an album all the way through it actually hits a lot of the same enjoyments for me.
My favorite song from this album was definitely "That's the Way," which in my mind is a song about a summer romance between closeted teens and it's so sweet and sad.
The album was closer to a 4.5 for me, but there were a few banjo riffs that took me out of the album's immersion a bit, but overall I was incredibly pleasantly surprised by Led Zeppelin.
4
Jul 02 2024
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Murmur
R.E.M.
This album was fine. Nothing really stood out to me. To their credit, R.E.M.'s sound style is very distinctive and it's clear how much it influenced music for the decade after they came on the scene.
3
Jul 03 2024
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In Rainbows
Radiohead
4
Jul 04 2024
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The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
2
Jul 08 2024
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The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
I knew it was going to be a hard sell when the first song was called "Smack My Bitch Up" and that was basically the only lyric. The band (group?) made the choice to have that as the opening to their album, and it's not a choice I'm a fan of. The songs were fine -- big dance electro sounds that I can see playing at a rave or something, but overall, the initial statement of the album really tainted it for me.
2
Jul 09 2024
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Band On The Run
Paul McCartney and Wings
Nice album. It was very Paul, meaning that it was pleasant and pretty. Maybe not mind-blowing or thought-provoking, but a good sound.
4
Jul 10 2024
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Ingenue
k.d. lang
Nice voice and some of the cabaret-styled songs were interesting and refreshing, but overall kind of one-note for me.
3
Jul 11 2024
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Liquid Swords
GZA
I thought GZA was such a poetical lyricist. He's talking about dark stuff, but because it's creative and more about the emotion and intent than the graphic imagery it works way better than Tical, which is the only other WTC member's album we've had so far in this project.
At the end of the day, the beats and subject matter weren't super captivating to me, but I'd consider giving this album another listen from time to time to catch clever lyrics I missed this time around.
3
Jul 12 2024
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
3
Jul 15 2024
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Debut
Björk
3
Jul 16 2024
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Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
PJ Harvey
What an iconic 90's sound. It was very clear that some of my favorite current female powerhouses (Fiona Apple, Florence & the Machine) get inspiration from PJ. This album was tricky for me to rate because I think if I listened to it a lot more I'd get into it, but for a casual listen the strong 90's influence made it closer to a 3.5 rating for me since it's not my favorite sound.
4
Jul 17 2024
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Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
It was fine. The lead vocalist's voice felt a little shakey (not in a good way) at times.
3
Jul 18 2024
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
A Beatles album I hadn't heard before, so it was fun to listen to a new one. It's a 4/5 as far as Beatles go for me, mostly because I don't have as strong of a nostalgia factor for it compared to the White Album, Abbey Road, and Sergeant Peppers. Also not a big fan of "Run for Your Life" because it's so violent. "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" is similarly violent, but it's so over the top outrageous (and catchy) that it sort of gets a pass from me, where as "Run for Your Life" is about a very really problem of violence against women. Maybe it's a wet blanket opinion, but especially since it closed the album it didn't leave a nice taste in my mouth. Maybe I'd feel more similarly about Maxwell's Silver Hammer if it was the closer too, but we'll never know.
4
Jul 19 2024
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
This album has a lot of different flairs, but Wonder shines brightest with the funk songs. His voice is smooth as freaking *butter*, and combined with the funky synths you can't help but bop along to the upbeat tracks. I'm looking forward to "The Key of Life", which undoubtedly is in this project, and I'm pretty sure that album will outperform this one ever so slightly.
On a side note, it's a very interesting time to hear "He's Misstra Know It All" in American politics:
"The song is essentially a long description of a know-it-all confidence trickster character who is a "man with a plan", who has a slick answer to all his critics and who has "a counterfeit dollar in his hand."" (from the song's Wikipedia page)
4
Jul 22 2024
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A Night At The Opera
Queen
I didn't love this album as much as Queen II because it didn't feel as theatrical and whimsical overall. That being said, "Bohemian Rhapsody" really can't be argued with for star quality.
4
Jul 23 2024
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Pretenders
Pretenders
I really liked this album! Is it cringe to say that it rocked really hard? If it is, I don't care because this album rocked! The vocalist was superb, the lyrics were great, and the sort of fuzzy and unrefined sound quality of the instrumentals fit the vibe SO well. This is the punk rock style I've been waiting for in this project and I will definitely listen to this album a lot.
5
Jul 24 2024
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Oar
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
This one was really tough to rate. Did I enjoy listening to it? Not really. But is the story behind it fascinating? 100%
Here's a snippet from the Wikipedia article:
"Described as "one of the most harrowing documents of pain and confusion ever made", the album was recorded after Spence had spent six months in Bellevue Hospital. Spence had been committed to Bellevue following a delusion-driven attempt to attack Moby Grape bandmates Don Stevenson and Jerry Miller with a fire axe.
"At the time of Spence's release from hospital, he had written a number of songs that he wanted to record. Producer David Rubinson suggested that Spence record at the Columbia studios in Nashville, where there was a particularly patient recording engineer, Mike Figlio. Rubinson instructed Figlio to keep the tapes running at all times, to record everything that Spence did. The majority of the tracks were recorded using a three-track recorder...
According to Spence, the Nashville sessions were intended by him to only be a demo, which he gave to Rubinson with the intent that the songs would be fleshed out with full production for the actual album. Instead, Rubinson had the demo recordings released by Columbia."
------
I feel like that story aligns so well with the tone of the album. It was unpolished and raw, and some of the lyrics were unhinged or glimpses into a man with deep regret and confusion in a state of total vulnerability. I'm glad I listened to it and have this in my music history knowledge, but don't think I'll listen to it again.
2
Jul 25 2024
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The Sensual World
Kate Bush
It was fine. None of the songs really stood out to me.
3
Jul 26 2024
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Coles Corner
Richard Hawley
3
Jul 29 2024
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Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
This is probably closer to a 3.5 for me, because the album felt a little dated at times with the sound and style. The 60s were great musically, but when it's overly noticeable it detracts from the songs. Of course, "White Rabbit" is a classic, and overall I'll probably listen to this album again but won't reach for it often.
4
Jul 30 2024
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A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
High School Me was OBSESSED with this album, in particular "The Scientist". I vividly remember playing the Youtube music video for The Scientist on endless repeat (with manual "Replay" clicks every. single. time.) as I did homework, wrote in my journal, and made art.
I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this album now that I'm in less-angsty times in my life, but the second half of this album absolutely kills. The standouts are "Green Eyes" and "Amsterdam" (which used to be one of my all time faves -- turns out it still is). Honorable Mention to "Warning Sign". The first half of this album isn't necessarily my favorite, but it makes the second half hit much harder so at the end of the day, I think the album as a whole works wonderfully.
This is probably a 4 for me, but gets a +1 for the Nostalgia Factor
5
Jul 31 2024
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Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs
Marty Robbins
This album was better than I was bracing myself for it to be. I thought it would be very hokey patriotic country nonsense. Instead, it was sometimes interesting and often catchy. I can definitely see how it was culturally significant. That being said, will I listen to this one again? Probably not, because it's not a genre style that really does much for me.
2
Aug 01 2024
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Rings Around The World
Super Furry Animals
This album was all over the place stylistically, but really enjoyable to listen to. I'm not sure how much staying power this one will have, but my knee-jerk reaction was one of enjoyment, so that's how I ended up rating this one.
4
Aug 02 2024
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Bubble And Scrape
Sebadoh
3
Aug 05 2024
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Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
3
Aug 06 2024
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Bridge Over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
5
Aug 07 2024
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Immigrés
Youssou N'Dour
3
Aug 08 2024
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Smokers Delight
Nightmares On Wax
Meh, it was alright. Some of the songs felt like elevator music, and the songs that didn't weren't very memorable. I think this genre has come a long way since this album, but this one wasn't one I enjoyed.
2
Aug 09 2024
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OK
Talvin Singh
I really enjoyed this album for how eclectic it was. I loved the story behind it and imagining where in the world each song was recorded as it came on. The combination of Western instruments like strings and the orchestral flute paired and juxtaposed with Indian instruments was beautiful and refreshing.
4
Aug 12 2024
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(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
Fun album with lots of iconic songs.
4
Aug 13 2024
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
From the first song, I was fairly certain this wasn't going to be a winner for me. I didn't care for the main vocalist's voice, the synthetic drum beats felt glaring and tired, and none of the lyrics really spoke to me (tbf, I was listening to this during work though so I didn't listen very intently). There were a few songs that I caught myself bopping along to as I worked though, so there's something inherently catchy about their beats at times. The rap flows were also a little reminiscent to ATCQ, with smooth playful ups and downs, so there's another small redemption.
All in all, I don't see myself listening to this one again, but I appreciate the influence it had (and that I now know that "trip hop" is a thing).
2
Aug 14 2024
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Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Good album. Neil Young has a disadvantage in this 1001 Album Project because I think his songs take a while to fully digest. Some of the songs struck me immediately, but overall I'm giving this album the benefit of the doubt to increase in value over more listens.
4
Aug 15 2024
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
These guys are crazy. Great voices though.
2
Aug 16 2024
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The World is a Ghetto
War
I enjoyed a lot of this album. Some of the funkier bits weren't my thing, but there was a lot of cool organ riffs. Probably won't listen to this one much again because it's not a style that resonates super strongly for me.
3
Aug 19 2024
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OK Computer
Radiohead
This album was good, especially the singles (Karma Police and No Surprises). I didn't feel like this album took as many risks as other Radiohead albums we've heard in this project, but it's one of their earlier works and is from 1997, so that may be a factor. The spoken word "Fitter Happier" track was pretty jarring to the album flow for me, but didn't detract too much from the overall album.
4
Aug 20 2024
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Superunknown
Soundgarden
Yeah, this one wasn't for me. It was too grungy and gave "40 year olds living in their parents basement but we're gonna make it big with our garage band one day" vibes.
2
Aug 21 2024
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Antichrist Superstar
Marilyn Manson
I hated the album cover.
I hated the singing.
I hated the lyric content, with abuse-coded gems such as "I lift you up like the sweetest angel/I'll tear you down like a whore".
And none of this is helped by the awfulness that has come to light about Manson himself and his disgusting abusive tendencies because the violent lyrics feel way too on the nose.
I'm glad I've finally heard music from a household name, but am also glad to never ever listen to it again.
1
Aug 22 2024
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Tanto Tempo
Bebel Gilberto
Pretty vocals, but bossanova reminds me of elevator music. It's not terrible to listen to during work, but it's not immensely interesting.
2
Aug 23 2024
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Dookie
Green Day
I've loved this album for years because it threads a very *very* fine needle of tongue-and-cheek rebellion while still feeling authentically angsty. A non-example of this, in my opinion, would be Blink-182. Although I think their music is really fun, it doesn't have the same depth and earnestness that Green Day generally does. Also, Dookie really represents the kickoff of the pop-punk wave, which I have to pay homage to because it's a genre I enjoy so much.
Finally, to highlight the contrast to other alternative/punk albums we've heard, I just love the inspiration behind one of the potentially more concerning tracks:
""Pulling Teeth", one of the album's slower songs, uses dark humor about domestic violence. The typical victim and perpetrator are reversed; the male narrator is at the mercy of his partner.[24] The band's inspiration for this song came from a pillow fight between Dirnt and his girlfriend that ended with the bassist breaking his elbow."
A pillow fight. I couldn't sum up the intense Bart Simpson energy of this album any better if I tried.
5
Aug 26 2024
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Violator
Depeche Mode
2
Aug 28 2024
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Grievous Angel
Gram Parsons
It wasn't bad, but it was pretty dang country.
2
Aug 29 2024
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Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Nick Cave and violence. My two favorite things to listen to during this project.
2
Aug 30 2024
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The Who Sell Out
The Who
Fun album that's playful and doesn't take itself too seriously. It didn't feel super substantive to me so I'm not sure how often I'll reach to put this album on in the future.
3
Sep 02 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
One of the best albums to listen to with a cup of coffee on a weekend morning.
4
Sep 03 2024
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Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
I think this is an album that takes longer than a day to truly appreciate, but man oh man does it have promise. Some of the musical riffs were spectacular on the first listen through, then I caught a couple more awesome ones on the second listen. Who knows what I'll find on the 10th listen?
4
Sep 04 2024
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Abraxas
Santana
Great sound, talented musicians. I was shocked this album is from 1970 because Santana has had such lasting power in our culture that I thought he was most popular in the 90s. Great work/driving album to put on.
4
Sep 05 2024
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Apple Venus Volume 1
XTC
This album is tricky to rate because I loved the orchestral components. The use of repetition, layering, building, and dissonance was magical and so indulgent because bands rarely spring for the whole orchestra, let alone know how to compose for it. It was the standout feature of this album for *sure*. Some of the songs and lyrics were really, reallllly cringey (I'm looking at you, "Your Dictionary"), so I was a bit let down by the lyric writing.
That being said, I enjoyed the orchestra so much that I can see myself listening to this one often (but maybe I'll just remove "Your Dictionary" from the playlist first).
4
Sep 06 2024
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Run-D.M.C.
Run-D.M.C.
This album is sort of like the Bible or Shakespeare -- as I listened to it I heard lines that I've heard referenced many times but never knew they had an origin. The prime example of this is "all you sucker MCs".
I appreciate the historical impact and importance of this album, but ultimately didn't feel grabbed by any specific song. I love how much it has influenced hip hop, but don't think I'll listen to this one again.
2
Sep 09 2024
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Doolittle
Pixies
3
Sep 10 2024
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Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
Sinatra has a nice voice and I enjoyed the upbeat vibe of this album. It was a fun listen, but not a very deep album -- I think every song was about love, singing to a woman with "you" or "we". Ultimately I don't seem myself listening to this one very frequently, but I did enjoy it (probably a 3.5 for me instead of a 3).
3
Sep 11 2024
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Head Hunters
Herbie Hancock
Phenomenal instrumentals. I wish more music like this existed.
5
Sep 12 2024
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Another Music In A Different Kitchen
Buzzcocks
I couldn't believe this album was from the 1970s. The punk rock sound was so fresh and energetic that I thought it must be from a more contemporary time a la Greenday. This was a really fun listen, especially from a punk history perspective.
Ultimately, the songs were good but blended together a lot. Not a bad thing, but it's the main reason I don't see myself listening to this one again.
3
Sep 13 2024
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Boston
Boston
Dive bars everywhere rejoiced when this album was released because the knew, deep in their hearts, that they would have a plethora of new songs to add to their karaoke machines.
3
Sep 16 2024
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Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
This album has some phenomenal songs and seems like the kind of album that grows and grows on you over each listen. It was very eclectic, experimenting with different styles that leaned from glam to country to pop, but it all felt authentic and cohesive.
4
Sep 17 2024
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My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
Fun album. I'll listen to this one again.
4
Sep 18 2024
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B-52's
The B-52's
A fun one. Rock Lobster for the agesssss!
3
Sep 19 2024
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Venus Luxure No. 1 Baby
Girls Against Boys
Not really my vibe, but there were some cool musical moments (strongly disliked the vocals though).
2
Sep 20 2024
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3 Feet High and Rising
De La Soul
Fun album, entertaining lyrics. There were a lot of similarities to a Tribe Called Quest, but the smoothness of Q-Tip's bars makes Tribe rank a little higher in my book. I'll probably listen to this album again to catch more of the lyrics though.
4
Sep 23 2024
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Born To Run
Bruce Springsteen
It didn't really do much for me. It would probably take more listens to really appreciate the songs because they were so dense with story telling.
3
Sep 24 2024
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Morrison Hotel
The Doors
4
Sep 25 2024
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Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Super fun album to dance and cook to.
4
Sep 26 2024
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Eternally Yours
The Saints
3
Sep 27 2024
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Pills 'n' Thrills And Bellyaches
Happy Mondays
Some of the songs were cool, but the music often noticeably felt like it was using a drum machine, which was distracting and not pleasant.
3
Sep 30 2024
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C'est Chic
CHIC
As far as disco goes, this was alright. Lots of songs that I recognized, so the iconic status made it an interesting listen. Probably won't listen again though.
3
Oct 01 2024
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Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
4
Oct 02 2024
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Larks' Tongues In Aspic
King Crimson
Not for me.
2
Oct 03 2024
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To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
I was curious how this album would compare (or not compare) to good kid mAAd city and I was genuinely impressed. Compared to gkMc this album explored themes of grappling with fame for African Americans who find success, especially if it's at all related to a perception of gaining clout based on the historic struggles of the community. I could feel Kendrick's turmoil and exhaustion at trying to raise up instead of tear down, but was really moved by how fine a needle he was able to thread of pointing out huge social issues while giving glimmers of hope. His story-telling is unparalleled and I will definitely be giving this more listens in the future.
4
Oct 07 2024
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Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
Iconic.
4
Oct 08 2024
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
Eh, not really my style and none of the songs grabbed me.
3
Oct 09 2024
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Scott 4
Scott Walker
It felt a bit like Sinatra but without the "it" factor. Didn't really do much for me.
2
Oct 10 2024
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I Against I
Bad Brains
Not really anything for me in this album. It's cool that this band was foundational to hardcore punk and heavy metal while also being Rastafarian and all-black, but unfortunately those genres don't really do it for me.
1
Oct 11 2024
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The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
4
Oct 14 2024
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
What a phenomenal album. I'm a sucker for dissonant, brassy syncopation and this album was indulgently full of it while somehow keeping it fresh and interesting every single time. Bravo, Sufjan.
5
Oct 15 2024
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Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
I preferred "Innervisions" because it had more standout songs. With the exception of "Superstition" this album didn't really capture me.
3
Oct 16 2024
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Marcus Garvey
Burning Spear
Interesting protest album. A quote from the wikipedia page was interesting to me as well "...made a deal to release it internationally, but believed the original Jamaican mix of the album to be too threatening, or at least too commercially unviable, for white audiences and therefore remixed it into what they considered a more palatable form, outraging him."
3
Oct 17 2024
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Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
It was fun, but I wasn't blown away by this album like I was with Led Zeppelin III.
3
Oct 18 2024
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McCartney
Paul McCartney
It felt experimental and unfinished, which seemed very intentional.
3
Oct 21 2024
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Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Reminded me a bit of the Cranberries. I enjoyed it, but probably not a style that I will listen to much in the future.
3
Oct 23 2024
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Life's Too Good
The Sugarcubes
This was alright. Interesting that it was what led to Bjork being Bjork.
2
Oct 24 2024
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Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
It was okay. Granted, I didn't listen to the lyrics super closely, but not an album I anticipate listening to again.
2
Oct 25 2024
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Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim
Frank Sinatra
This was a very enjoyable album and, as Jeff said, really good morning vibes. As I was listening I was toying with the idea of rating this one a 4, but then we somehow took a detour and ended up in Girl from Ipanema purgatory. I managed to escape, but the main riff still haunts me and reminds me of the 10+minute version of that song.
3
Oct 28 2024
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Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. To be honest the name "Meatloaf" makes me picture an unhygenic obese guy with a breathy screamo voice, which I realize is not *at ALL* accurate.
4
Oct 29 2024
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3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
3
Oct 31 2024
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Revolver
Beatles
I didn't have this album growing up but so many of the songs are already familiar to me. Collectively it's probably my favorite cluster of Beatles songs wrapped up in one bundle -- the perfect blend of danceable, singable, ennui-inducing, and joy.
5
Nov 01 2024
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Elephant
The White Stripes
I missed this album when it came out because I was in the depts of being a musical theater nerd, but this album is phenomenal. Every song is interesting lyrically and musically, there are some excellent instrumental moments with exceptional talent, and the album as a whole works beautifully.
5
Nov 04 2024
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Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John
Solid album with memorable songs and some absolute bangers. I hadn't heard an Elton John album before and was only familiar with his biggest hits, so it was cool to see how his songwriting and playing worked in other songs. The album was on the long side and I think could have been edited down (did we really need Jamaica Jerk Off?), but everything was so pleasant that I didn't mind a ton.
4
Nov 06 2024
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Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
3
Nov 07 2024
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
I enjoyed this one. Her voice is divineeeee. And her style reminds me of maybe a blend of Amy Winehouse (especially in "The Windmills of Your Mind") and Carole King.
4
Nov 08 2024
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Strange Cargo III
William Orbit
2
Nov 11 2024
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The Yes Album
Yes
Sort of felt like a blend of Fleet Foxes, Crosby/Stills/Nash, and the Grateful Dead with a little Phish thrown in. Great instrumental work throughout. The lyrics generally didn't capture me, but this was a fun album to listen to overall.
4
Nov 12 2024
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Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Admittedly I didn't listen too attentively to this one, but it was alright. Nothing awful, nothing spectacular that stood out to me.
3
Nov 13 2024
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My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts
Brian Eno
It was an interesting album and I could definitely hear the Talking Heads styling -- there were a few songs that I thought were going to break into "This is not my beautiful house" a couple times.
Overall I enjoyed it, but the experimental meandering of instrumentals isn't something I think I'll seek out again.
3